Cervical cancer is a preventable cancer that is most commonly caused by the human papillomavirus infecting the cervix. Treatment options for cervical cancer depend on the stage of the cancer and how far it has spread. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. During and after treatment, doctor-approved exercises can help patients regain strength and good health.
Prevention
Protective factors are lifestyle habits that decrease your risk of developing cancer. According to the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, regular exercise is a protective factor for cervical cancer, reducing your risk of developing the disease. Follow a regular exercise program by doing cardiovascular activities for at least half an hour five times a week to stay healthy, advises the American College of Sports Medicine. Incorporate strength training into your routine by lifting weights or exercising using your own body weight twice a week.
Exercising With Cervical Cancer
Exercise improves quality of life and can help cervical cancer patients develop stronger immune systems and lessen the negative effects of chemotherapy or surgical procedures, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America. A research panel of exercise and cancer specialists advocated exercise for cancer patients in the July 2010 issue of "Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise." The article offers guidelines and suggestions of exercise programs that may benefit cancer patients.
Exercise Guidelines for Cancer Patients
The exercise guidelines for cancer patients established by the ACSM advise tailoring exercise programs to the individual's type of cancer, treatment and overall condition. Exercise can benefit most cancer patients during all stages of treatment and recovery, according to the guidelines. A main objective of the exercise program guidelines is to increase muscle mass for cancer survivors, thereby improving overall strength, body image and energy levels. In addition, the guidelines state that cancer survivors are at an increased risk of developing other chronic diseases, and exercise can reduce this risk.
Statistics
Improvements in medical treatment and prevention, such as using Pap smear tests to detect and prevent cervical cancer, have resulted in a growing population of about 12 million cancer survivors living in the U.S., according to the journal "Medicine & Science in Sports & Medicine." An exercise program can help cervical cancer survivors improve their quality of life by boosting recovery speed and body functioning, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
Warning
Consult your doctor before beginning any exercise program, and discuss the details of your treatment and condition and how it will affect your exercise program. If you experience any sharp or lasting pain, chronic fatigue or light-headedness while exercising, stop immediately and call your doctor. Your treatment plan may also require you to rest before or after surgeries or other procedures that take a toll on the body.
References
- Cancer Treatment Centers of America: Cervical Cancer Treatments
- University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center: Cervical Cancer Prevention
- National Cancer Institute: Guidelines Urge Exercise for Cancer Patients, Survivors
- American College of Sports Medicine: Physical Activity & Public Health Guidelines
- "Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise"; American College of Sports Medicine Roundtable on Exercise Guidelines for Cancer Survivors; Kathryn H. Schmitz, PhD, MPH, FACSM, et al.; July 2010
